Toyota New Zealand is preparing to open pre-orders for its first fully electric Hilux, with the new Hilux BEV joining the ninth-generation ute range in SR and SR5 trim.
Toyota’s first-ever battery electric Hilux is on its way to New Zealand, with pre-orders set to open towards the end of May.
Known as the Hilux BEV, the new model joins the recently launched ninth-generation Hilux range and gives Kiwi fleet operators, businesses and private buyers a zero tailpipe-emission option within Toyota’s most recognised ute nameplate.
The Hilux BEV will be offered exclusively as a double-cab model in New Zealand, with buyers able to choose between cab chassis and wellside body styles. Both versions use a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain and will be available in mid-spec SR or premium SR5 trim.
Toyota New Zealand Chief Strategic Officer, Andrew Davis, says the arrival of the Hilux BEV represents a significant step in Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to electrification.
“Offering both Kiwi businesses and private buyers the choice of a Hilux with zero tailpipe emissions is a crucial step forward in providing consumers the right powertrain for the right application, at the right time,” Andrew Davis says.
“This is an exciting time for Toyota; bringing in a fully electrified version of the much-loved Hilux finally gives businesses and fleets the option of low-emission motoring, supported by Toyota’s genuine parts and accessories programme, and our unrivalled servicing network.”
While diesel will continue to do the heavy lifting for high-payload and towing-focused users, the Hilux BEV is aimed at customers with more predictable daily routes, defined work areas and easy access to charging. Toyota says it is particularly well suited to daily travel distances under 200km.
That places it in a useful space for infrastructure work, construction, farms, horticulture, eco-tourism operators, local government contractors and fleet users working from a central base. It could also suit orchard, vineyard and livestock environments where low noise and zero tailpipe emissions are a genuine benefit.
“From patrolling airport runways, moving equipment around a vineyard or orchard, to regional highway inspections, the Hilux BEV would fit seamlessly into many working environments. But don’t underestimate its capability, it certainly holds its own on rugged terrain too,” Andrew says.
Underneath, the Hilux BEV uses a newly developed 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery and dual-motor AWD system. Combined output is rated at 144kW, with torque variably distributed between the front and rear axles during on-road driving.
For off-road use, the Hilux BEV features Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select traction control system, with six drive modes designed to adjust wheel slip according to the terrain. Toyota says the BEV retains the same 700mm wading depth as the standard Hilux.
Toyota has also given the Hilux BEV its own suspension package to suit the battery-electric platform. This includes frame reinforcements, beefed-up MacPherson strut front suspension and a De Dion rear leaf spring arrangement, which accommodates the rear electric motor while retaining a live-axle layout.
Testing has included work with Australian mining fleets, placing vehicles in hot, remote and demanding environments, along with off-road terrain. Since arriving in New Zealand, Toyota says the Hilux BEV has also been tested against its diesel equivalent in challenging off-road conditions.
Charging capability includes DC fast charging from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 30 minutes. On three-phase AC charging, the 10kW onboard capacity allows a 10 to 100 percent charge in around 5.5 hours.
Toyota lists driving range at 245km for the cab chassis variant on the NEDC cycle, while wellside models are rated at 315km.
Towing capacity is rated at 2000kg braked when fitted with a Toyota Genuine Accessories towbar, while unbraked towing is rated at 750kg.
Visually, the Hilux BEV is identified by a closed-off upper front grille and aerodynamically enhanced 17-inch alloy wheels. Two colours will be offered: Glacier White and Ash.
The wellside variants use Toyota’s A-deck layout with four tie-down hooks, tailgate assist and a 275kg-rated side deck step.
Safety equipment includes Toyota Safety Sense, with Pre-Collision System including motorcycle detection, Intersection Collision Avoidance, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beam and Lane Tracing Assist. The SR Wellside and SR5 add a higher-definition Panoramic View Monitor, four front and rear sensors and Parking Support Brake.
Pricing for the New Zealand Hilux BEV range will be announced later this month.
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